This category was developed for the discussion of online auctions and their associated questions, problems and other issues. No auction "pimping" allowed! (Don't try to get free advertising for your auctions here)

Expectations of Forum Tone & Behavior

Be nice.

You want more? Okay, I'll explain.

Be nice because it promotes better discussion. When people feel attacked they get defensive. The topic gets derailed onto personal issues, and productive discussion ends. Nobody wins here.

If you were sending a friend or family member to the forums, how would you want them to be treated?

Stick to the topic. Criticize the argument but not the individual. If you have a strong case, there's no need to attack the other person's character to make your point.*

And let me be clear, personal attacks aren't just direct namecalling. These are all attacks to the intelligence and character of the poster and not acceptable:
- "Even you can understand this."
- "Let me put this in simple terms you can understand."
- "Only an idiot would think that."
- "I think I lost IQ points just reading that."
- "I will not dignify that nonsense with a response."

Be respectful and bring value to the conversation. Explain your criticism. Differences of opinion are great! ...if both sides take the time to explain themselves. Don't just have a duck season/rabbit season argument.

Good examples:
- "I hate to burst your bubble, but that hard drive has gotten some pretty terrible reviews: Link"
- "Good price, but mine broke after a week"
- "Found it cheaper here: Link"
- "Rebate kills this deal. Company XYZ is notorious for not honoring their rebates."
- "I'll have to disagree. In my experience..."
- "Really? I was just reading this article that says the exact opposite..."

Want to avoid the drama and running afoul the moderation team? I'll let you in on this simple, time-tested strategy:

Be more polite than you think is necessary.

*Excellent video discussing "What You Said vs. Who You Are". Hint: You want to be having the first conversation. It has examples specific to discussing race, but the basic principle applies to any conversation.

Beijing , China - February 2, 2005 – Alibaba.com announced today the official launch of its AliPay online escrow system and the www.alipay.com website, which makes AliPay available to all businesses and individuals in China. The payment system provides buyers and sellers with a comprehensive solution that resolves the issue of trust in online transactions while providing an efficient platform for transacting online.

We appreciate that you have submitted the required information and have reviewed the details of this suspension. Since you have provided proof of your identity and agreed to the conditions for reinstatement, it has been decided to reinstate this account. Please note that, although your account is now active, any listings or bids that were cancelled by your account suspension will not be reinstated.

*Please do not reply to this email. If you have additional questions such as billing inquiries or inquiries about the status of another account you own, please visit the eBay Help system for information and/or access to send your question to eBay Customer Support. You can visit our Help system by clicking on the “Help” button at the top of every eBay page or at the following Web address:

In the spirit of "Wear Sunglasses" I leave you with this:- Don't lie on a customs form stating something is a gift. Otherwise it will become just that.. a gift you're out the money for.- Don't ship without confirmation of some type. Without it, you will always be found at fault.- Don't insure for less than the value, or you will lose the difference.- Don't believe everything you read in email, even if it looks official. It isn't.- Don't fall for scammers promising you more money than you're asking. Their money is stolen or fake, you wlll lose.- Don't be bullied by buyers, leave negs where needed, and suck it up when they retaliate. You'll look stronger instead of weak.- Don't lie to buyers claiming you will ship one way then ship another.- Don't scam the shippers by misusing their free supplies. It will only cost everyone more in postage anyway.- Don't believe deadbeat stories, be firm and consistent. Otherwise you will sit on items for months waiting and waiting.- Don't hide known flaws or absenses (e.g. UPC symbols) in your items. Be honest and take good pictures.- Don't bend your TOS, give an inch, they will steal a mile.- Install anti virus and anti spyware programs, keep them up to date.- Take pictures/scan every payment and envelope you receive, you may need it later.- No one in the eastern-block countries really wants your merchandise---just all of your money and identity.

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